This module provides an introduction to podcasting as a digital writing project, which will be the final part of the Multilieracies Project. We will look at the modalities emphasized in this medium, as well as the genres and elements of author's craft that might be most appropriate to address. The chapter in Hicks provides insights for thinking through (a) how you might structure a podcast assignments and (b) what a podcast might have to offer you in terms of reading or writing goals for your students. You will also have the opportunity to explore a variety of student-created podcasts that are available on our Digital Salon site. Finally, there are additional resources available to help you begin planning and developing your podcast project! Feel free to send an email if you want to think through any ideas together.
What exactly is a podcast?
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Download the module sheet to work through the activities. You will need to click on the picture below to access the podcast from This American Life that is referenced in the activity description. When you are done, please upload your completed document to the forum on Canvas by November 17 at 8:00 pm.
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Once you have finished working through the analysis activity, you are ready to move onto planning YOUR podcast response project. Keep in mind the modalities that were emphasized in the analysis activity and reference the chapter as needed. Below are additional resources for focusing your purpose statement (one for informational writing and one for narrative writing) and working through the brainstorming phase.
- When you are ready to get started, I suggest exploring GarageBand (available on Macs) as an easy tool to work with.
- Additionally, some students have used WeVideo and just utilized the recording features. If you have a tablet of some sort, there are many additional apps you might explore.
- Use each other, campus resources, and online resources to support you during the design process.
- Keep in mind you can also rent equipment from Merit if you would like to use GarageBand and don't own a Mac device.
Additional Resources
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This sample graphic organizer is one way to begin planning for your podcast. Feel free to use it or develop your own approach!
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This sample assignment sheet is from a middle school classroom.
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This sample assignment sheet is from a section of English 100-- which is clearly far above the level of your students. However, it might give you some ideas for how you might craft a research-focused podcast assignment.
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The Planning Process
Step 1: setting a focus
After completing the online module, you will want to review how the project is framed using MMAPS on the unit website. This will help you to begin brainstorming the purpose statement for your project based on the book you read and what you see as an appropriate genre to explore.
Step 2: Planning Stage
The module included one potential resource for planning but you are welcome to use any structure that is helpful to you. It is good to have some organization in mind before you get started, but keep in mind that once you begin designing, your direction will probably (and hopefully!) change as you encounter both challenges and opportunities of working in the medium. Use notes from the module activity to help brainstorm ideas you will want to consider for arranging your podcast.
Step 3: drafting stage
Do you need to write out a full script? It is usually helpful to do so, especially if you are going to recruit friends to help out with additional voices. You may also want to seek out music, sound effects, and any other components from your plan.
--> If you are using GarageBand to build your podcast, there is a library with an extensive list of free music and sound effects. You do not need to cite these. You can also search for other "open source" materials online. If you do want to use copyrighted music, you actually are allowed to do so because our projects are for educational purposes. However, you do need to cite your sources.
--> If you are using GarageBand to build your podcast, there is a library with an extensive list of free music and sound effects. You do not need to cite these. You can also search for other "open source" materials online. If you do want to use copyrighted music, you actually are allowed to do so because our projects are for educational purposes. However, you do need to cite your sources.
Step 4: crafting stage
If you have access to a Mac device, I recommend using Garageband (you should also be able to check out devices from Merit equipped with this software). If you are new to Garageband, here are some resources to get you started: